Virginia state Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, the Democratic nominee for lieutenant governor, is projected to win the race, making her the first Muslim woman elected to a statewide office in U.S. history. Decision Desk HQ announced the projection, stating Hashmi defeated Republican candidate John Reid.
Hashmi’s victory marks a significant milestone, as she would break barriers as both a Muslim and a woman in statewide politics. Reid, a former conservative talk radio host, had positioned himself as a potential first openly gay Republican to hold a statewide office. The race centered on key issues, with Hashmi emphasizing opposition to President Donald Trump’s policies and increased funding for public education, while Reid focused on reducing taxes and regulations for businesses and excluding transgender athletes from girls’ sports.
Hashmi secured her Democratic primary in June by defeating former Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and state Sen. Aaron Rouse. She campaigned as a progressive figure, backed by Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.). Meanwhile, Virginia also elected its first woman governor, with former Democratic Rep. Abigail Spanberger projected to win against Republican Lt. Gov. Winsome Earle-Sears in a two-woman contest.
